From Teen Vogue columnist Nona Willis Aronowitz comes a compelling blend of memoir, social history, and cultural criticism that explores the complexities of desire and sexual freedom today. At thirty-two, Nona faced turmoil: her marriage was crumbling, her family dynamics were shifting, and her heart and libido were overwhelmed. In a time marked by fear and reexamination, her understanding of "sexual liberation" was challenged. Seeking clarity, she turned to the writings of historical sexual revolutionaries, including her late mother, radical feminist Ellen Willis. Amidst a culture where sex is widely accepted and feminism is mainstream, Nona grappled with her own desires and their feasibility in a world shaped by patriarchy, capitalism, and white supremacy. The narrative intertwines her personal experiences with family history and stories spanning nearly two centuries, featuring ambivalent wives, Free Lovers, radical lesbians, and others who navigate the spectrum of sexual experiences. The result is a courageous exploration of the persistent obstacles to sexual freedom, illuminating both the achievements and shortcomings of contemporary feminism while addressing universal questions of desire.
